EGTA modulates equatorial currents in frog lenses

Exp Eye Res. 1989 Nov;49(5):705-15. doi: 10.1016/s0014-4835(89)80032-6.

Abstract

A combination of a vibrating probe with microelectrodes was used to study the effects on the equatorial K+ current, J, of perturbing the frog lens by removing Ca2+ from the bathing medium. The results were different in the absence and presence of EGTA. In the absence of EGTA the reversal potential (PDJ = 0) remained near the Nernst potential; the input resistance, R, and the resistance of the segment of the K+ current loop being studied, RJ, decreased; the driving force (PD - PDJ = 0) increased; and J increased fourfold. In the presence of EGTA J did not increase more than twofold; the current-voltage relationship became linear; RJ did not decrease and both the PD and the reversal potential, PDJ = 0, became less negative with time. These findings, which are dependent on the use of the vibrating probe, were unexpected, and they were explored by studying the effects of removing Na+ from the medium. Substituting TMA for Na+ did not increase J. Removal of Ca2+ and the addition of EGTA to a Na+-free medium in which frog lenses were bathed resulted in a decrease in RJ, and an increase in J; J varied inversely with the concentration of Na+ in the medium. The changes were reversible. A mechanism to account for the changes is proposed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / physiology
  • Egtazic Acid / pharmacology*
  • Electrophysiology
  • Lens, Crystalline / drug effects
  • Lens, Crystalline / physiology*
  • Membrane Potentials / drug effects
  • Potassium Channels / drug effects
  • Rana pipiens / physiology*
  • Sodium / physiology

Substances

  • Potassium Channels
  • Egtazic Acid
  • Sodium
  • Calcium